Close on the footsteps on the somewhat critically acclaimed ‘Pirates of the Caribbean – The Curse of the Black Pearl’, is the sequel – Dead Man’s Chest’ this time with veteran composer Hans Zimmer at the musical helm.

In true Zimmer style – this soundtrack is daring and yet not too far from the familiar. The opening track, ‘Jack Sparrow’, captures the meandering eccentricities of the versatile character with an amazing lead cello work, moving from a lighthearted intro to jubilant string passages. In Dinner is Served Zimmer waltzes, in Two Hornpipes, he lives it up with folk inspirations, and in the pipe organ composition of The Kraken he reveals a darkly menacing atmosphere. Whether it is the slow A Family Affair to the resounding Wheel of Fortune, Zimmer gives his latest effort enough momentum to keep it as captivating as the movie. This soundtrack also features a bonus remix track by the world- renowned DJ Tiesto on He’s a Pirate.

As if Zimmer’s music is not enough, DJ Tiesto gives an entire bonus remix CD that includes a variety of additional no doubt exceptional remixes of He’s a Pirate which at 7 versions gets a little too much. If you’ve seen the movie available on DVD, and want to enjoy its brilliant sound escapades, this album would be a good bet, best enjoyed on a good sound system.

Rating: ****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira